Circular Motion: Tangential and Normal Acceleration

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The discussion focuses on the relationship between tangential acceleration (a_s) and normal acceleration (a_n) in circular motion. Participants explore relevant equations, including a_n = v^2/R and v = v_0 + a_s*t, while seeking a general expression for a_s in relation to v_s. Clarifications indicate that the problem does not require a defined value for v_0 but rather an expression involving variables. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the equations and their applications in circular motion. Overall, the thread highlights collaborative problem-solving in physics.
Heexit
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Homework Statement
A particle moves in a circular path of radius R in such a way that the tangential acceleration is equal to the normal acceleration. Determine the velocity as a function of time t and the initial velocity (v_0).
Relevant Equations
N/A
Hello Physicsforum!

This is my attempt:
First I realised:
##a_s=a_n##

Secondly I used since previus known formulas:
##a_n=\frac {v^2} {R}##
##v=v_0+a_s*t##

Although now I do not know how to continue, any suggestions would be appriciated!
Thanks for your help on beforehand :smile:
 
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Heexit said:
##v=v_0+a_s*t##
That is only if the tangential acceleration has constant magnitude.
What equation relates ##a_s## to ##v_s## more generally?

Unless you have left out some information, there is no way to determine ##v_0##.
 
haruspex said:
That is only if the tangential acceleration has constant magnitude.
What equation relates ##a_s## to ##v_s## more generally?

Unless you have left out some information, there is no way to determine ##v_0##.
Thanks for your help!

The only equation that I can think of is:
##a_s=\frac {dv} {dt}##
Anything more than that I can't think of :/

There might have been some inaccurate translation on my side, sorry about that. The question does not ask us for a define value of ##v_0##, rather an expression of variables, see solution in picture below:
1685002553625.png
 
Heexit said:
The only equation that I can think of is:
##a_s=\frac {dv} {dt}##
That will do nicely. Combine that with your other information.
Heexit said:
The question does not ask us for a define value of ##v_0##, rather an expression of variables, see solution in picture below:
View attachment 327036
Ok.
 
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Likes MatinSAR and Heexit
Thanks for your help!
Here is my solution:
1685006197544.png
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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